Bone marrow biopsy and aspiration

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How you prepare

By Mayo Clinic staff

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Bone marrow exams are often performed on an outpatient basis, and special preparation usually isn't needed. In preparation for your bone marrow biopsy and aspiration, you may want to:

  • Tell your doctor about medications and supplements you take. Certain medications and supplements may increase your risk of bleeding after a bone marrow biopsy and aspiration. Make a list of the medications and supplements you take and discuss the list with your doctor.
  • Tell your doctor if you're nervous about your procedure. Just knowing that you're going to have a bone marrow exam can cause some anxiety and stress. Keep in mind that bone marrow exams aren't always painful, and they're over with quickly. If you're feeling anxious or worried, talk to your health care team. Your doctor may give you a sedative medication before your aspiration and biopsy, in addition to a numbing agent (local anesthesia) at the site where the needle is inserted.
What you can expect Risks
References
  1. What are bone marrow tests? National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/bmt. Accessed Nov. 4, 2011.
  2. Ryan DH. Examination of the marrow. In: Lichtman MA, et al. Williams Hematology. 8th ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2010. http://www.accessmedicine.com/resourceTOC.aspx?resourceID=69. Accessed Nov. 4, 2011.
  3. Gomella LG, et al. Bedside procedures (bone marrow aspiration and biopsy). Clinician's Pocket Reference. 11th ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2007. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=2694363. Accessed Nov. 4, 2011.
  4. Mesa RA (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Ariz. Nov. 14, 2011.
MY00305 Dec. 13, 2011

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